From Jan 26-27, The Pleasanton Youth Theater Company presented their seasonal show, Aladdin Jr. Based on the iconic 1992 childrens’ film, an adapted version of the show was performed by multiple casts of talented young kids over the course of a weekend.
Rehearsals for the musical started early September and continued weekly until opening night on January 26. The cast consisted of kids aged five to eleven who sang, danced, and acted to bring the magic of Agrabah to life.
“I got offered to direct [the show] and I was super excited because Aladdin is one of my favorites,” said director Leila Brown (‘22).
The Amador Theater showcased all five shows, which was complete with set changes, costume changes, and a soundtrack. Along with learning the conventions of theater, the cast also had the opportunity to create friendships amongst each other.
“All the special moments that come to mind are all of the cast bonding…I just love seeing the kids bonding and being themselves. Yeah… It’s been a wonderful experience,” said Brown.
With months of preparations, the cast learned the essentials of theater, such as blocking, choreography, and various stage techniques. Most of the staff had in-depth experience with theater which helped the kids look their best on stage.
“We have a set of directors and there’s three of us in total, and I help with choreographing all the choreo in the show… usually with this age range, we don’t go too hard on the choreo…in order to make it look like the stage is having a lot going on, but also not confusing them as much,” said choreographer Veronica Pascual (‘25).
(Alyssa Vu)
Family, friends, and parents showed up to support the young cast. Under Amador’s stage lights, the kids showed off the skills that they had honed over the past five months. Several different casts rotated between shows, bringing out different personalities and ensuring no two shows were the same.
Because the Pleasanton Youth Theater Company is open to everyone, the program attracts a unique cast to every show. This makes every show special and allows every kid to flourish under the guidance of experienced professionals. PYTC’s year-round shows and creative environment encourages kids to explore their artistic abilities and their creative outlets.
“I think it’s really fun for them to, like, just experiment with what they’re interested in. If it’s not their thing, then it’s not their thing, which some of the kids, it’s not, but some of them, it is, and I, like, support them. The passion in their eyes is so interesting,” said stage manager Niko Garcia (‘25).
As Aladdin Jr. wraps up, the PYTC continues its momentum with more shows underway. Upcoming shows include Spongebob Jr. and Winnie the Pooh. Those looking to attend those events can purchase tickets through the Firehouse Arts Center.
